That became clear when Tellem, also a minority owner, helped to negotiate the team’s move from the Palace of Auburn Hills to downtown Detroit to play in Little Caesars Arena, and become instrumental in other business ventures as a representative of Pistons owner Tom Gores.

But a close relationship with a former client could pay dividends as the Pistons seek to fortify a playoff run in the second half of the season.

He played three seasons at UNC, winning a national championship in 2009 over Michigan State, 89-72, in Detroit. He scored 19 points in the final, including this first-half dunk, and was named the tournament's most outstanding player. Julian H. Gonzalez, Detroit Free Press

Ellington is well traveled, having played for Minnesota, Memphis, Cleveland, Dallas, L.A. Lakers, Brooklyn and Miami, before the trade to Phoenix on Feb. 6. He has played in seven career playoff games (2014 with Dallas, 2018 with Miami). Patrick Farrell, TNS

Ellington is a career 38 percent 3-point shooter, but had fallen out of the rotation with the Heat. The 10-year veteran is averaging 8.4 points in 21.3 minutes per game. Ellington averaged 11.2 points per game, a career high, last season with the Heat.

His defense was an issue with the Heat, but he will help the Pistons' spacing. The franchise is also attracted to him because he comes from the Heat's winning culture.

He is great at moving without the basketball to find shooting room.

Wayne Ellington will see more run tonight with Wade and Dragic out. Ellington has only played in 3 games and started in 1. He is shooting 46.7% from 3 so far this season. The Heat locked Ellington in for 1 year so his shooting will be wanted across the league. #MiamiHeatpic.twitter.com/QEXkND6xrx